Palani The Steer

Hey Pay, let me tell you about the incredible journey that brought you into my life.

It all started back in 2017 when I decided to ditch meat for a couple of weeks to tackle some pesky pain and inflammation. Little did I know, that decision would change everything.

See, giving up meat wasn’t just about my health. It opened my eyes to a whole world of reasons people choose to go plant-based – health, the environment, and compassion for animals, just like you.

Growing up on a farm, I always felt a special connection to animals. But it wasn’t until later, when I realized the fate of those animals we raised, that I truly understood the weight of our choices.

I remember those days across from my house, watching the cows graze in the fields. Turns out, they belonged to a nearby dairy farm. And that’s where our story took a turn.

Six months into my meat-free journey, I made the leap to a fully plant-based diet. And as I did, I started thinking, “What can I do to make a difference?”

That’s when you came into the picture, Pay. I decided I wanted to rescue a baby boy calf, just like you. You see, in the dairy industry, little bull calves like you are often seen as surplus – with no purpose other than to be discarded or sold for meat.

So, I mustered up the courage and went to the dairy farm. I’ll never forget the look on the farmer’s face when I asked to buy and rescue a calf. It was a mix of surprise and curiosity.

And then, the magic happened. The farmer agreed. And that’s when I knew you were meant to be mine, Pay. Your name, Palani, means “Free Man” in Hawaiian – a fitting tribute to your newfound freedom.

When your mama, Snookie, was due to give birth, I waited with bated breath. And when you finally arrived, just nine minutes old, it was a moment I’ll cherish forever. I fed you your first bottle and promised to care for you always.

From that day forward, rain or shine, I’ve been by your side, Pay. You weren’t just a rescued calf; you were the spark that ignited something incredible – Pay & Friends Inc., our sanctuary for animals like you.

So here we are, Pay, embarking on this journey together. And I couldn’t be more grateful to have you by my side.